Apply for Temporary Work Visa (subclass 457)

Answer this FREE online assessment to find out if you meet the basic requirements needed to apply for a Temporary Work Visa to work in Australia. Ensure that the answers you provide are as accurate as possible.

This visa is only available to people who can fill an position for which there is a labour shortage.

Step 2: Ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements

You must meet the following requirements in order to apply:

Have a knowledge of the English language;

Arrange to have health insurance during your stay in Australia; and

Meet the health and character checks required for all Australian visa applicants

Step 3: Find an employer that is an approved sponsor

If you are not already employed with an Australian company, you may be able to find an employer through the SkillSelect program. This program matches skilled workers with employers looking for foreign-national workers.

Employers can complete the employer sponsorship application online through the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP).

Step 4: Get an employer nomination

Once you find an employer, you will need to have them nominate you for the visa. You can apply for this visa at the same time your employer lodges their applications to sponsor and nominate you.

Employers can complete the employer nomination application online through the DIBP.

Step 5: Apply for the 457 Visa

After you find an employer and get a nomination, you can apply for the 457 visa online through the DIBP.

Step 6: Wait for a decision

It can take several months for the DIBP to make a decision on your visa application. In 2016, the processing time for the 457 visa was 2-3 months.

Step 7: Receive your visa and start working!

Once your application is approved, you will receive your visa and can start work in Australia.

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